Between the sea and the mountains, Bastia is easy to explore on foot in one day. Here is our itinerary, from morning to evening, to discover its squares, historic districts, Old Port and Citadel.
Getting to Bastia from Vescovato
From Hôtel Résidence A Torra, Bastia is around thirty minutes by car. Park in one of the city-centre car parks, then explore on foot: the main sights are close to one another.
Morning: Place Saint-Nicolas and Terra Vecchia
Start with Place Saint-Nicolas, one of the largest squares in Corsica, open to the sea and the ferry port. Its cafés and its statue of Napoleon make it a favourite meeting place for locals.
Then head to Terra Vecchia, the historic district, along Rue Napoléon and its Baroque oratories. On Place du Marché, the morning market brings together producers and Corsican specialities, at the foot of the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
Late morning: the Old Port
With its colourful façades and fishing boats, the Old Port is the heart of Bastia. Walk around the harbour to the jetty, which offers one of the best views in the city of the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the Citadel. The harbour terraces are ideal for lunch.
Afternoon: the Citadel
Walk up to the Citadel, also called Terra Nova, through the Jardin Romieu, a terraced garden linking the Old Port to the heights. At the top, the Governors’ Palace houses the Bastia Museum, devoted to the history of the city.
Then wander through the lanes of the Citadel to the cathedral of Sainte-Marie and the church of Sainte-Croix, home to the Christ of Miracles. The ramparts offer lovely views over the sea.
Evening: Boulevard Paoli or Cap Corse
For shopping, head back down to Boulevard Paoli, Bastia’s main shopping street. If you prefer the sea, take the Cap Corse road to Erbalunga, a former fishing village about ten kilometres to the north, featured in our article The most beautiful villages in Haute-Corse.
Our tips for your visit
- Wear comfortable shoes: the lanes are steep and there are many steps.
- In summer, set off early to enjoy the cool of the morning.
- Check the opening hours of the museum and churches before your visit.
- One day is enough for the essentials; allow more time if you want to visit the museums in detail or explore Cap Corse.
Where to stay to visit Bastia? Hôtel Résidence A Torra
To visit Bastia while enjoying peace and quiet, Hôtel Résidence A Torra welcomes you in Vescovato, about 10 minutes from the airport, with an outdoor swimming pool and free, secure private parking. Read our guide Where to stay near Bastia? and discover our studios and apartments.
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To continue your stay: Discover Vescovato and the Casinca, our restaurants near the residence and our activities around Bastia.